Final answer:
Cellular respiration is a set of chemical reactions that convert glucose and oxygen into carbon dioxide, water, and ATP. It is essential for generating energy in cells and plays a role in the water cycle by releasing water vapor as a byproduct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cellular respiration is a set of chemical reactions that convert carbohydrates and oxygen into carbon dioxide and water. The equation for cellular respiration is:
glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water + energy (ATP)
During cellular respiration, glucose is broken down in the presence of oxygen, releasing carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP. This process occurs in three stages: glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and electron transport. It is the main process by which cells generate energy.
Cellular respiration is essential for all living organisms, including plants and animals. It plays a crucial role in the water cycle by releasing water vapor as a byproduct. Water is involved in many other biochemical reactions, and life processes depend on water.